Make-Ahead Berry Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Get all the custardy richness French toast without the morning mess.

Stale bread gets new life as this rich, custardy casserole. Jennifer McGruther

This casserole gives you all the richness and satisfaction of classic French toast without the tedium of standing over the stove, flipping each piece one at a time. Instead, you mix the ingredients in advance and let them sit overnight in the fridge until the bread softens, then bake it the next morning. The result is a delicious, custardy casserole that’s a cinch to throw together.

Serves 12

• 8 cups stale sourdough bread, cubed
• 3/4 pound fresh or frozen and thawed mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• 6 eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup Grade A amber maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons butter, plus additional for greasing the pan
• Powdered sugar, for serving

Lightly grease a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the bread and berries in the prepared dish and set it on the counter while you prepare the egg mixture.